Oral Histories of DeKalb Podcast Series

March 6 @ 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Oral Histories of DeKalb podcast series will focus on interviewing older residents (ages 55+) about their personal stories and their connection to DeKalb and its history. The podcasts and the interview materials will become part of the DeKalb Public Library’s local history department.

Participants will schedule a one-hour timeslot to be interviewed about their personal histories. At that time, the participant will receive release forms to complete and a list of potential interview questions. The interview will be held at the DeKalb Public Library’s new recording studio.

Before the scheduled interview, the participant and the interviewer will review the potential questions and discuss the parameters of their conversation. If there are questions or subject areas in which the participant does not wish to answer, the interviewer will take note at this time.

During the interview, the interviewer will ask the participant the approved interview questions while the conversation is recorded.

Sometime after the interview (depending on processing time), the participant will receive a copy of their interview. Another copy will be housed on the landing page for the Oral Histories of DeKalb podcast.

This project will follow the standards of the Oral History Association (OHA). It is intended for adults ages 55 and older.

The Oral Histories of DeKalb Podcast series is an opportunity for us to focus on the stories of the senior citizens of DeKalb. By capturing their personal histories and connection to the city, we can document not only the history of DeKalb, but of its residents. These interviews will prove invaluable to our community history over time.

For additional information or to register for a time slot, please contact Sara at saramf2@illinois.edu or at (815) 557-7526.